Root Beer Float Jello Shots
Root Beer Float Jello Shots are a fun adult treat made with vanilla vodka, root beer, and unflavored gelatin, topped with whipped cream and a cherry for that classic float experience in shot form.
Servings: 12 shots
Calories: 35kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 12 Ounces Root Beer room temp
- ½ Cup Vanilla Vodka
- ½ Cup Boiling Water
- 2 Packets Unflavored Gelatin 0.25 ounces each
- Whipped Cream optional garnish
- Maraschino Cherries with stem (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Combine 4 ounces of room temperature root beer with the unflavored gelatin in a medium mixing bowl. Stir gently just until the gelatin powder is wet, being careful not to over-stir as this can create lumps in your mixture. Let the gelatin mixture sit undisturbed for 3 minutes. This allows the gelatin to bloom properly, which ensures your jello shots will have the right consistency and set up beautifully.
- Pour the boiling water over the gelatin mixture and stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved. You shouldn't see any granules remaining in the liquid.
- Add the vanilla vodka and remaining 8 ounces of root beer to the mixture and stir well to combine everything evenly. The mixture might look a bit fizzy, and that's perfectly normal.
- Fill your jello shot cups about ¾ of the way full, leaving room at the top for garnishes. Place the filled cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the shots are completely set and firm to the touch.
- When ready to serve, top each shot with a generous dollop of whipped cream, add a maraschino cherry, and insert a mini straw piece for that authentic root beer float look.
Notes
- Avoid Over-Stirring: When you first mix the gelatin with the cold root beer, stir just enough to wet all the powder. Over-stirring at this stage can create lumps that are difficult to dissolve later.
- Don't Garnish in Advance: Wait until you're ready to serve before adding the whipped cream, cherries, and straws. If you garnish too early, the whipped cream can deflate and the presentation won't look as fresh.
- Mind the Alcohol Ratio: Be careful not to add more vodka than the recipe calls for, as too much alcohol can prevent the gelatin from setting properly. Stick to the ½ cup measurement for best results.
- DIY Mini Straws: You can easily make mini straws by cutting regular paper straws into 1½-inch pieces with scissors. Red striped straws look especially festive and authentic.
- Reduce Fizz If Desired: If you prefer a less fizzy appearance, gently stir the carbonation out of the root beer before using it. The shots will still taste delicious without the bubbles.
- Strain for Smoothness: If you do end up with a few gelatin lumps despite your best efforts, simply pour the liquid mixture through a fine mesh sieve before filling your cups.
Nutrition
Calories: 35kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 0.1g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 0.4mg | Sugar: 3g | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.02mg